How to TRIM YOUR DOME PORT | Quick Tip #3

[@MatthiasLebo]

What topic should I talk about in the next quick tip episode?! 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@davidpittman4564]

Matthias, does the volume of air in a port matter if you use a vacuum system? Should a vacuum system always be used?

[@lordvisionz]

great question. Would love to know the answer to this! Or maybe try it out myself and make a video

[@MatthiasLebo]

That is a very good question mate. First of all, yes, I would always use a vacuum system if available on the uw camera system you're using. It provides an added peace of mind knowing that the pressure inside the housing is stable (and stays stable for an extended period of time) before taking the housing underwater. In regards to the volume questions, I'm not 100% certain on this and I couldn't find any clear reference to it during a quick web search, but from my understanding it won't make a substantial difference whether or not you have pulled a vacuum on your system in terms of the "weight" (or lift) the hollow space with execute on your housing. Keep in mind you're not extracting all air out of the housing, simply taking a little bit out to create a slight vacuum. So I think this can be neglected when balancing your underwater camera system. I hope this makes sense and helps?

[@juhanivaihkonenunderwater]

I personally like the nauticam trim weigh system more as you can adjust it much better even to vertical shooting, but nice video still.

[@MatthiasLebo]

Thanks for your feedback Juhani. Sure, I understand. But the Nauticam system is in a slightly different price category too. 😉

[@juhanivaihkonenunderwater]

@@MatthiasLebo Of course the price difference is different but when reviewing the product you should also tell the bad things as well comparing to some better products. Also using scuba diving weights are not that great idea as 1kg is often the smallest and even 2kg in some cases what diving center has to offer and it gets negative and positive very fast with 1kg weights. Also the cheapest option is of course just the wieght belt with small weight tied to extension, specially with metal housings. Also freeding weight are usually smaller as well so if the dive center offers freediving also, there is probably rubber belts with small weights.

[@MatthiasLebo]

Sure buddy, both have their pros and cons. This wasn’t really meant to be a review of the product, rather a tip on how you can balance your done ports. Not claiming that this is THE BEST option, but it’s an easy and affordable way to get decent results.

[@mikejwheatley]

Spend hundreds on a special trim weight system, OR, use very cheap car wheel balance weights that have a sticky back, secured with some electrical tape. All can easily be added smartly to retain the good looks of your dome port. The latter you can carry a small number of spares if travelling.

[@MatthiasLebo]

The Ikelite system actually cost less than $100 and the adjustment is quicker and easier in my opinion. Getting a perfect trim with the car wheel balance weights takes time practice as you have to be going in and out of the water for fine adjustments. With the Ikelite system you fine tune it while in the water. Much easier and more convenient in my opinion. 😉